Profile & History of Kyai Mojo, Grandfather of Duta SO7 and Right Hand of Prince Diponegoro

Kyai Mojo, whose real name is Muslim Mochammad Khalifah, was a cleric and national hero who played a significant role in the Java War that lasted from 1825 to 1830. Born in Surakarta around 1792, Kyai Mojo grew up in a family rich in religious values and history.

His father, Iman Abdul Arif, was a prominent scholar in the villages of Baderan and Mojo, teaching Islamic law to Kyai Mojo. Meanwhile, his mother, R.A. Mursilah, had a strong connection to the Yogyakarta Palace and was even a sister of Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono III. 

After losing his father, Kyai Mojo continued the leadership of the pesantren established by his father. He mastered Islamic law and martial arts, which earned him respect and reliance from many people. However, Kyai Mojo was also known as a brave fighter.

The Java War is one of the important chapters in the history of the struggle against Dutch colonialism. Kyai Mojo not only became a scholar but also a war commander who fought alongside Prince Diponegoro. In battle, he served as a spiritual and strategic advisor to Diponegoro's forces.

Kyai Mojo even became a substitute for Prince Diponegoro when the prince was injured. His bravery and leadership allowed him to successfully recruit many additional troops, including village kyais, scholars, and students.

However, Kyai Mojo's struggle was not always smooth. In 1828, a conflict arose between Kyai Mojo and Prince Diponegoro that led to Kyai Mojo being captured and exiled to Tondano, North Sulawesi. Nevertheless, this exile did not dampen his spirit to fight.

Kyai Mojo was exiled to Tondano in 1828 and passed away there on December 20, 1849, at the age of 57. His grave is located in the Hills of Wuluan Village, Tolimambot District, Minahasa, North Sulawesi. Although he has passed, his legacy lives on in the hearts of the people.

Kyai Mojo left a great legacy, both in the field of religion and the struggle for Indonesia's independence. He is known as a wise scholar and a tenacious fighter. His descendants, including Duta Sheila On 7, still honor and remember his contributions. Duta openly states that he is the 7th descendant of Kyai Mojo.